Writer's+Memo+Expectations

Writer’s memos are typically two-three paragraph reflections a writer composes after he or she has completed a piece of writing. The memo is a space for the writer to seriously think about and reflect on his or her writing and its effect. Writer’s memos are extremely useful, both for the student and teacher. For students, these memos provide a space for them to explain why they approached the assignment as they did, to note what they did well in the assignment, and to indicate where they would like constructive criticism. For teachers, these memos serve as a useful guide for the reading and evaluation processes.

There is not one right way to compose a writer’s memo. Depending on the assignment, you might consider some of the following questions:

· What is the thesis, claim, or purpose of your essay? · What did you do well in the essay? What could you improve upon in the essay? · Which part of the essay was easiest to write? Which was most difficult? · What sentence or paragraph do you think is most effective and why? What sentence do you find the least effective and why? · Did you write the paper all at once or did it come together in pieces? · How many revisions did you write? Who else read your paper? How did your readers help? · What would you like the reader to look for? · What have you learned through writing this paper? How have your feelings about the issue changed through writing? · Who is your audience and why?